How to Get Rid of Termites

A Complete Termite Treatment Guide

Termites are a common pest that can cause a lot of damage to your garden. They feed on wood and other organic material, which means they will be attracted to any type of wooden furniture or structures in your yard.

Most homeowners usually hire a local pest control company for termite treatment to avoid any serious damage to their houses.

As a homeowner, it’s good to know the basic information about termites and how to get rid of them so that you can be prepared in case you ever encounter these pests.

In this blog post, we discuss everything you need to know about termites and how to protect your home and garden from future termite infestations.

What Termites Look Like

Termite wings are much longer than their bodies. Their wings have a long, straight vein down the middle and they tend to be quite dark in color.

The head of a termite is small compared to its body size and features a pair of large eyes that can help them find sources of food even in low-light conditions. The mouthparts contain two powerful chewing jaws that are used to digest the cellulose in wood.

Termites also have two small antennae on their head, which help them detect nearby food sources or other termite colonies because they use pheromones for communication. It’s important to note that termites don’t have a skeleton – they have soft bodies and rely on the protection of their extremely sturdy exoskeleton.

What are the Different Types of Termites

Before you start looking for a termite control solution, you should know what type of termites are present in your garden. The three main types of termites include damp wood, dry wood, and subterranean.

Subterranean termites

Subterranean termites are the most common type of termite. This is because they live underground in nests that are made from mud or wood. They are typically found in regions with high humidity, although some species can be found living inside homes and buildings even if the climate is dry.

Drywood Termites

As their name suggests, dry wood termites are typically found in dry climates. They are commonly found in wooden furniture, homes, and other structures that are at least three years old. Drywood termites are harder to spot because their nests are hidden inside the wood.

Dampwood termites

These types of termites love damp climates and can be found living in trees or wooden structures that have been exposed to water for a long time. Dampwood termites won’t eat healthy, dry wood but they will readily infest moist timber.

Can Termites Fly?

If you’re wondering whether termites can fly, the answer is yes. Termites are capable of flying, but they don’t do this too often. They usually fly when it’s time to set up a new colony or when the existing one has become too overcrowded. When you see termites flying around your garden, it’s likely that there is a large colony of these pests somewhere nearby.

Read More: How to Get Rid of Roaches the Safe Way with 03 Steps

Are Termites Attracted to Light?

Termites are attracted to light if their habitat becomes too dark, but they won’t intentionally fly towards bright lights. If you want to keep termites away from your garden, it’s best to leave some lights on in the evening so that these pests will be less likely to enter your yard while looking for somewhere else to live.

Can Termites Bite Humans?

Yes, termites can bite humans. However, they don’t do this very often unless they are being threatened. You don’t hear about cases of termite bites because they are not aggressive towards humans. It’s important to note that the saliva from a termite bite can cause an allergic reaction in some people, so it’s best to avoid being bitten by these pests if possible.

How To Get Rid Of Termites in Wall

If you’ve spotted termites in your wall, you know how disturbing it can be to see these swarming insects. Not only do they look bad, but the real problem is that termites are destroying your home from within. It’s important to deal with termites in the wall as soon as possible. Here are some effective strategies you can use to get rid of termites in your wall.

1. Inspect your Property and find out Where the Termites are Entering

The first thing you need to do is inspect the exterior of your home and look for any possible entry points that could allow these insects into your yard. Look carefully at all wooden structures, window sills, and door frames because this is an area termites will likely want to infest. Once you’ve found a spot where termites are entering, make sure to repair it as soon as possible.

Once you’ve found the entry point, it’s time to look for any signs of termites in your yard. These pests usually leave mud tubes and discarded wings behind when they’re entering or exiting an area. If you find these materials on your property, there is a good chance that at least one colony of termites has been infested somewhere inside your garden.

Read More: Termite Troubles: Most 12 Signs of a Termite Infestation

2. Use a Termite Bait System

Termites prefer to eat wood, but they can also be tempted by something sweet. This is why you should use a termite bait system that will attract these pests and kill them before they cause any serious damage. There are many different types of termite baits on the market, but they all work in a similar way.

Once you’ve found an infested area, you will need to install the bait system. Make sure it’s positioned so that termites can easily reach and feed on its contents. Once these pests eat the poison sugar they’ll return to their nest and share it with all of their colonies, resulting in a massive die-off.

3. Use a Termite Spray

If you can’t or don’t want to use baits, the next best option is to use a termite spray.

These types of insecticides are not as effective as bait systems but they’re still efficient enough for small infestations.

When using this method, it’s important that you find every possible entry point so you can spray them with insecticide.

How to Get Rid of Termites in Soil

If you have a termite infestation in your soil, you will need a bit more than just a chemical treatment to solve the problem. Termites in the soil can be difficult and time-consuming to get rid of, but by following these steps you will make your home termite free:

1. Remove the Affected Soil

Termites in your lawn or garden may require some heavy machinery to get rid of them. Dig up any soil that is infested with termites and remove it from your property immediately, then treat this area with chemicals so you can be sure that no living termite remains on the premises. This will also help prevent future outbreaks.

If you have a potted plant that has been infested with termites, get rid of the pot and any soil from around it. Treat this area immediately so there is no chance for termiticide-resistant species to spread or establish themselves in your garden.

Get rid of rotting wood by removing fallen trees and large pieces of wood from your property. Termites can use this wood to travel between the soil and your home, so it is advisable that you get rid of all possible entry points into your house.

2. Treat the Affected Area

After you have removed all of the infested soil and wood, use a chemical treatment to treat any possible entryways into your home. This will help get rid of termites that are hiding out in nests near these areas, making it easier for them to be completely eradicated from your property.

The right chemicals to use will depend on where you live. There are a number of effective termiticides that can be used to treat soil and wood, but make sure they are approved for your area before applying them.

3. Get a Professional Termite Control Treatment

If your infestation is severe, it may be advisable to hire professionals who have experience dealing with termite control. Depending on the severity of the problem, you may need to consult an exterminator that specializes in termite control.

If you have a particularly difficult case, it may be better to get several treatments done at once or hire professionals on an ongoing basis until all of the infestations are gone completely.

Remember: when dealing with termites, prevention is always the best cure!

Pro Tip: In many cases, it would be a good idea to have your property treated by a professional even if you don’t see any termites. Often the chemicals that are being used can also kill other pests such as ants and cockroaches, so there really isn’t much downside to getting a treatment done unless you’re not experiencing problems with these insects on your property.

How to Get Rid of Termites in Furniture

If you have termites in your furniture, it can be difficult to know where they are hiding. The first step is to look for any damage inside the furniture, such as tunnels in wood. This will be evidence of a termite infestation and you can use this information to find out where they are hiding so you can get rid of them properly.

Once you have found signs of termites or know exactly where they are located within your piece of furniture, plan your attack. Here are the steps you should take:

1. Get Rid of the Infested Furniture

If your piece of furniture is made from wood, you can use a chemical treatment to kill off any termites. The chemicals used for this purpose will be based on where you live so make sure they are approved for use before applying them.

A good idea would also be to replace wooden pieces with metal or plastic. These materials cannot be used as a food source for termites, so they will never infest them again in the future.

If your furniture is made from other types of materials such as cotton or foam, you should try to find an exterminator that specializes in these kinds of pests to get rid of any remaining colonies and ensure they don’t return.

Pro Tip: If you have a piece of furniture that is made from several different materials, make sure to treat all of them at once so termites can’t hide out in one place and re-infest the rest later on down the road.

2. Use Anti-termite Chemicals on your House

Once you have gotten rid of the termites infesting furniture, it is a good idea to get chemical treatments done inside your home. This will ensure that any colonies hiding in walls or behind other surfaces are eliminated completely so they can’t come back later on down the road and cause more damage. However, make sure to read the instructions carefully before applying any chemical treatments so you don’t get rid of termites in the wrong areas. If you’re unsure, hire a professional to do it for you.

Pro Tip: If you have a high infestation of termites, it may be a good idea to make sure your entire property is treated. This will mean that no matter where the colonies are hiding they can all be eliminated once and for all so they don’t come back later on down the road.

How to Get Rid of Termites Naturally

There are many natural remedies that you can use to get rid of termites. If your infestation is not severe, these treatments may be the best way to go if you want to avoid harsh chemicals and prevent future problems in the same area in the future.

Here are some “home remedy” ways to kill off any termite colonies:

Tea tree oil: One of the essential oils that is known for being very effective in killing off a variety of pests, including termites. To use it as a treatment, add about 15 drops to a spray bottle full water and apply directly to any infested areas.

Borate powder: This chemical compound can be used internally or externally to kill termites. If you’re using it outside, apply the powder directly around any potential entry points where they might be entering your home and watch for signs of infestation over the next few days.

Neem oil: This is another natural product that can be used as a treatment to get rid of termites. It has antibacterial properties that are known to kill off all kinds of pests, including termites. However, keep in mind that it will take about two weeks for this treatment to work so you’ll have to be patient before moving forward with any other treatments.

Pro Tip: After applying any type of home remedy or natural product on the outside of your home, be sure to seal up any potential entry points so termites can’t come back once you have gotten rid of them.

How Much Does Termite Treatment Cost?

Now that you have an idea of how to get rid of termites yourself, it is a good time to look at the costs associated with hiring a professional termite exterminator. These prices can vary greatly depending on where you live, how many colonies are infesting your home, and the type of treatment that is needed to get rid of them.

Here are the factors that affect the cost of termite treatment:

Size of the termite infestation: The larger the colony of termites, the more expensive it will be to get rid of them. The same goes for having multiple colonies that need treatment at once since this requires additional chemical applications and labor costs.

Type of Termite Treatment

Treatments can vary widely depending on whether you want a preventative service or if you are trying to treat an active infestation of termites. If you’re in need of preventative treatment, it can cost less while active infestations will be much more expensive and could run into the thousands depending on how big your colony is.

Type of Termites

Some termites are much harder to get rid of than others, making treatments more expensive. For example, dry wood and damp wood termite infestations cost more because the chemicals used for these types of colonies must be applied in a different way since they require penetration into the wood where they nest.

Severity of the termite infestation

In order to determine the severity of an infestation, a professional termite exterminator will have to do a thorough inspection. If it is determined that there are many colonies and they have been active for quite some time, this may mean more chemical treatments or repairing any damage caused by them first before trying anything else.

Frequency of treatments

While preventative services only require one visit every year or two, active termite infestations will need to be treated more frequently. If you’re unsure about how often your colony needs treatment, a professional can give you a better idea based on their inspection and the severity of the problem.

To get an accurate price, it is best to receive quotes from several different pest control companies in your area so you can compare prices and services. A reputable termite exterminator will also have a good idea of how long the treatment process should take before any results are visible. However, they will most likely need to come back for routine inspections and treatments after the initial treatment.

Conclusion About Termite Control

There are many different ways to get rid of termites. It’s up to you to choose which treatment method will work best for your situation and the type of termites that are infesting your home.

If getting rid of these pests isn’t something you can do on your own, it is worth hiring a professional termite control company that has experience with different types of treatments including preventative services such as annual inspections and quarterly treatments.

In order to get the best results, be sure that you are very thorough when it comes to sealing up your home and preventing termites from coming back after a treatment has been done. Now that you know what to do, get rid of those termites!

FAQ

how to get rid of termites in plants

Termites can be a nuisance to plants, and it is important to get rid of them as soon as possible. There are a few ways to get rid of termites in plants, and the best method will depend on the severity of the infestation and the type of plant.

If the infestation is mild, you may be able to get rid of the termites by spraying the plant with a neem oil solution. Neem oil is a natural pesticide that is effective against termites. To make a neem oil solution, mix 1 part neem oil with 10 parts water. Spray the solution on the plant, paying particular attention to the areas where the termites are congregating.

If the infestation is more severe, you may need to use a stronger pesticide. There are a number of commercial pesticides that are effective against termites. When choosing a pesticide, be sure to select one that is safe for plants.

In addition to using pesticides, you can also take steps to prevent termites from infesting your plants in the first place. One way to do this is to avoid overwatering your plants. Termites are attracted to moisture, so overwatering will create an ideal environment for them to thrive.

Another way to prevent termites from infesting your plants is to keep them away from wood. Termites feed on wood, so if you have any wooden structures near your plants, be sure to inspect them regularly for signs of termite infestation.

If you find that your plants have been infested with termites, it is important to take action immediately. Termites can quickly cause damage to plants, and if the infestation is not treated, the plant may die.

How to get rid of termites in potted plants

Here are some tips on how to get rid of termites in potted plants:

1. Identify the type of termite. There are many different types of termites, and each type has its own specific treatment. To identify the type of termite, look at the size, shape, and color of the termite. You can also look at the type of damage the termite is causing to your plant.
2. Isolate the infected plant. Once you have identified the type of termite, isolate the infected plant from other plants. This will help to prevent the termites from spreading to other plants in your home.
3. Treat the infected plant. There are a number of different ways to treat termites in potted plants. One way is to soak the plant in a solution of insecticidal soap. Another way is to use a systemic insecticide. Systemic insecticides are absorbed by the plant and kill the termites when they eat the plant.
4. Monitor the plant for signs of re-infestation. Once you have treated the plant, monitor it for signs of re-infestation. If you see any termites, retreat the plant immediately.

What to do if you find termites in your garden

If you find termites in your garden, it’s important to take action quickly. Termites can cause significant damage to plants and structures, and they can be difficult to get rid of once they’re established.

Here are some steps you can take to get rid of termites in your garden:

1. Identify the type of termite. There are many different types of termites, and each type has its own specific treatment. To identify the type of termite, look at the size, shape, and color of the termite. You can also look at the type of damage the termite is causing to your plants or structures.
2. Remove any sources of food and water for the termites. Termites are attracted to moisture and wood, so remove any dead or dying plants, wood debris, and other sources of food and water from your garden.
3. Treat the termite nest. The most effective way to get rid of termites is to treat the nest. There are a number of different ways to treat termite nests, including:
   • Termite baits: Termite baits are placed near the termite nest and attract the termites. The termites eat the bait and die.
   • Termite sprays: Termite sprays are applied to the termite nest and kill the termites on contact.
   • Termite injections: Termite injections are injected into the termite nest and kill the termites and their eggs.
4. Monitor your garden for signs of re-infestation. Once you have treated the termites, it’s important to monitor your garden for signs of re-infestation. If you see any termites, retreat to the nest immediately.

If you have a severe termite infestation, you may need to call a professional pest control company. Professional pest control companies have the experience and expertise to get rid of even the most severe termite infestations.

How I Do gardening after termite treatment

Here are some tips on how to do gardening after termite treatment:

• Wait for the treatment to dry. Most termite treatments require you to wait for a certain amount of time before planting anything new. This is to ensure that the treatment has had time to take effect and that the soil is safe for plants.
• Start with small plants. Once the treatment has dried, you can start planting new plants. It is best to start with small plants, such as seedlings or annuals. This is because these plants are less likely to be damaged by any residual termite treatment.
• Water your plants regularly. Termites are attracted to moisture, so it is important to water your plants regularly. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can create a breeding ground for termites.
• Mulch around your plants. Mulch helps to keep the soil moist and prevents termites from accessing the plant roots. Use a layer of mulch that is about 2-3 inches thick.
• Inspect your plants regularly. Once you have planted your new plants, it is important to inspect them regularly for signs of termite infestation. Look for termite tunnels, termite droppings, and termite wings. If you see any signs of termites, contact a professional pest control company immediately.

How to get rid of termites on grass

Here are some tips on how to get rid of termites on grass:

Identify the type of termite: There are many different types of termites, and each type has its own specific treatment. To identify the type of termite, look at the size, shape, and color of the termite. You can also look at the type of damage the termite is causing to your lawn.

Remove any sources of food and water for the termites: Termites are attracted to moisture and wood, so remove any dead or dying plants, wood debris, and other sources of food and water from your yard.

Treat the termite nest: The most effective way to get rid of termites is to treat the nest. There are a number of different ways to treat termite nests, including:

• Termite baits: Termite baits are placed near the termite nest and attract the termites. The termites eat the bait and die.
• Termite sprays: Termite sprays are applied to the termite nest and kill the termites on contact.
• Termite injections: Termite injections are injected into the termite nest and kill the termites and their eggs.

Monitor your lawn for signs of re-infestation: Once you have treated the termites, it’s important to monitor your lawn for signs of re-infestation. If you see any termites, retreat to the nest immediately.

How to get rid of termites in a tree

Here are some steps on how to get rid of termites in a tree:

1. Identify the type of termite: There are many different types of termites, and each type has its own specific treatment. To identify the type of termite, look at the size, shape, and color of the termite. You can also look at the type of damage the termite is causing to your tree.
2. Remove any sources of food and water for the termites: Termites are attracted to moisture and wood, so remove any dead or dying branches, wood debris, and other sources of food and water from your tree.
3. Treat the termite nest: The most effective way to get rid of termites is to treat the nest. There are a number of different ways to treat termite nests, including:
   • Termite baits: Termite baits are placed near the termite nest and attract the termites. The termites eat the bait and die.
   • Termite sprays: Termite sprays are applied to the termite nest and kill the termites on contact.
   • Termite injections: Termite injections are injected into the termite nest and kill the termites and their eggs.
4. Monitor your tree for signs of re-infestation: Once you have treated the termites, it’s important to monitor your tree for signs of re-infestation. If you see any termites, retreat to the nest immediately.
5. If you have a severe termite infestation, you may need to call a professional pest control company: Professional pest control companies have the experience and expertise to get rid of even the most severe termite infestations.

How to get rid of a termite nest

There are a few ways to get rid of a termite nest, but the best method will depend on the severity of the infestation and the type of nest.

If the nest is small and accessible, you may be able to remove it yourself: To do this, you will need to dig around the nest to expose it. Once the nest is exposed, you can break it open and kill the termites inside. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask when doing this, as termites can bite and their feces can be irritating.

If the nest is large or inaccessible, you may need to call a professional pest control company: Professional pest control companies have the experience and equipment to safely and effectively remove termite nests.

Once the nest has been removed, you will need to take steps to prevent the termites from returning. This includes:

• Removing any sources of food and water for the termites, such as dead wood, debris, and standing water.
• Repairing any cracks or holes in your foundation or siding.
• Keep your gutters and downspouts clean and free of debris.
• Inspecting your home regularly for signs of termite infestation.

How to get rid of termites in mulch

To get rid of termites in mulch, you can follow these steps:

1. Identify the Problem: Ensure that you indeed have a termite problem. Termites in mulch may not necessarily indicate an infestation in your home, but it’s essential to confirm their presence before taking action.
2. Remove the Infested Mulch: If you have identified termites in your mulch, remove the affected mulch and dispose of it far away from your property. This helps to eliminate the immediate source of the infestation.
3. Install Physical Barriers: Consider creating a barrier between the mulch and your home to prevent termites from moving from the mulch to your structure. You can use materials like a metal or plastic barrier around the mulch bed.
4. Choose Termite-Resistant Mulch: Opt for mulch materials that are less attractive to termites, such as cedar, cypress, or pine bark. These materials are less likely to attract termites.
5. Regularly Inspect and Maintain: Periodically check your mulch for signs of termite activity. Early detection is crucial for preventing a full-blown infestation. If you notice any signs of termites, repeat the removal process.
6. Chemical Treatment: If the termite problem persists, consider using chemical treatments. You can apply termiticides labeled for outdoor use around the mulch area. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines carefully.
7. Consult a Pest Control Professional: If the termite infestation is severe or persists despite your efforts, it’s wise to consult a professional pest control expert. They can assess the situation and recommend the most effective treatment options.
8. Address Any Structural Issues: If termites have invaded your home, you must address the structural issues that allowed them to enter. Repair any damaged wood and seal any cracks or gaps that may serve as entry points.
9. Prevent Future Infestations: To prevent future termite problems, maintain proper ventilation, keep wood away from soil or mulch, and make sure there is no direct wood-to-soil contact around your home’s foundation. Regular inspections and preventive measures are key.

How to get rid of termites in your walls

Getting rid of termites in your walls is a serious matter, as these pests can cause extensive damage to the structure of your home. It’s essential to address the issue promptly. Here’s how to deal with termites in your walls:

1. Confirm the Termite Infestation:
   • Identify the presence of termites in your walls. Look for mud tubes, damaged wood, or termite swarms, which are signs of an infestation.
2. Consult a Professional:
   • Termites in the walls often require professional treatment. Contact a licensed pest control expert or termite exterminator to inspect your home and provide a comprehensive plan for eradication.
3. Treatment Options:
   • The pest control professional may recommend one or a combination of the following treatment methods: a. Liquid Termiticides: These are applied in the soil around your home’s foundation to create a chemical barrier that repels or kills termites. b. Termite Baits: Bait stations are placed in and around the walls to attract termites, which then carry the poison back to their colony, eliminating it. c. Fumigation: This is used for severe infestations. It involves tenting your home and fumigating it to kill all termites within.
4. Repair and Replace Damaged Wood:
   • After termite treatment, repair or replace the damaged wood in your walls. Ensure that all damaged structural components are fixed to prevent future infestations.
5. Preventative Measures:
   • To prevent future termite infestations, take these precautions: a. Ensure there’s no wood-to-soil contact around your home’s foundation. b. Maintain proper ventilation in crawl spaces and attics. c. Regularly inspect your home for signs of termites. d. Keep firewood, mulch, and other cellulose materials away from your home’s foundation.
6. Monitor for Recurrence:
   • Even after treatment, it’s essential to have periodic termite inspections to catch any recurrence early and prevent further damage.
7. Maintain a Termite Protection Plan:
   • Consider signing up for a termite protection plan with a reputable pest control company. These plans include regular inspections and may cover the cost of treatment if termites return.
8. Educate Yourself:
   • Learn about termite prevention and be vigilant. The more you know about termites and their habits, the better you can protect your home from future infestations.

Dealing with termites in your walls is a job best left to professionals, as they have the expertise, tools, and chemicals necessary to effectively eliminate the infestation. Timely action is crucial to prevent further structural damage to your home.